Gender differences in caries status of the first permanent molars in Libyan children

Abstract

Aims: To assess the prevalence and sex disparities for caries in the first permanent molars (FPMs) in Benghazi city, Libya. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted of 375 children (206 girls and 169 boys) of age 6-12 at pediatric clinic of Faculty of Dentistry. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16, Chi square tests.Results: Caries prevalence in FPMs amongst all of the age groups 6-12 year-old was 675 teeth (45%). Contrary to national and international trends, there was no significant difference in caries prevalence of FPMs between boys and girls, in the upper right and left quadrant (P> 0.05). However, in the lower right quadrant significant differences (P